Founded in 1974, Manchester Music Festival (MMF) is a summer chamber music festival located in Manchester, Vermont. It was established by violinist Carroll Glenn and pianist Eugene List.
At the heart of MMF is its focus on education, featuring renowned musicians and groups such as the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, The Knights, Emerson String Quartet, violinist Nurit Bar-Josef, Emily Daggett-Smith, cellists Edward Arron and Amit Peled, and pianists Ran Dank and Aaron Diehl.
Recently, MMF announced the appointment of Philip Setzer, a founding member of the Emerson String Quartet, as its new Artistic Director. Starting from October 1, Setzer will collaborate with pianist Jenny Lin, who will take on the role of Executive Director.
Originally established at Juilliard in 1976, the Emerson String Quartet will conclude its 47-year tenure at the end of the 2023 summer season. As Setzer's time with the quartet comes to an end, he will now shift his focus to teaching and bringing exceptional chamber music to MMF.
"It is a tremendous honor to be chosen as the new Artistic Director of Manchester Music Festival," expressed Setzer. "In 2024, MMF will celebrate its 50th Anniversary, which is a remarkable achievement in itself. I aim to continue the festival's mission of bringing outstanding classical chamber music to the beautiful region of Vermont."
Setzer further elaborated on his vision for programming, stating, "My primary concept will be to invite the audience on a summer journey that will encompass a common thread throughout the programs, connecting them, and incorporating a weekly event for discussing the program of the week and the overarching journey. Additionally, we have an exceptional Young Artists program, and I plan to integrate their performances with the main concert series."
MMF offers a Young Artists Program that provides full scholarships to string players and pianists between the ages of 18 and 26 during the festival season. In 2023, MMF introduced the Rising Stars Program, which allows exceptional alumni of the Young Artists Program to perform alongside guest artists at MMF.
Jenny Lin, a Steinway Artist with over 50 recorded releases, will assume the role of Executive Director. Lin is renowned for her interpretation of Philip Glass's Etudes and her commitment to education. She created "Melody's Mostly Musical Day," a musical picture book for children featuring classical piano pieces, which evolved into a multimedia concert that has toured internationally.
"I am deeply honored to accept the position of Executive Director for Manchester Music Festival, especially as we approach this significant milestone," said Lin. "Having been immersed in music throughout my life, leading this esteemed festival is both a personal and professional pinnacle. As the Festival celebrates its 50th anniversary, I am excited to work alongside Philip Setzer, one of the greatest artists of our time, in realizing his vision of creating memorable musical experiences and inspiring the next generation of musicians. I am eager to build upon the festival's rich legacy and explore new opportunities to expand its reach and impact."
